Police Officer Goes The Extra Mile To Help A Stranded Family In Arkansas

October 28, 2025

What started as a stressful road trip mishap turned into a beautiful reminder that kindness can show up when you least expect it.

Terry Bynum | Credit: K8 News / YouTube

Terry Bynum and his family were driving from Colorado to Mississippi when their car lost a tire on Highway 63 in Hardy, Arkansas, leaving them stranded far from home with no way to continue their journey.

When Bynum called 911, Hardy Police Sergeant Dan Gallagher arrived on the scene — but instead of just making sure they were safe, he decided to go above and beyond.

Gallagher loaded the entire family into his police cruiser, drove them to a nearby hotel, and even refused to let them pay for their room.

“I expected him to hand me a phone and say, ‘Here, have somebody come and get you,’” Bynum recalled. “He loaded my whole family up in his police cruiser, drove us to a hotel, insisted, refused to let me pay for a hotel.”

For Sergeant Gallagher, helping out was simply part of who he is — and a reflection of the community he serves.

“It’s a very giving and loving town,” he told KAIT8. “Me as a person, I like to give back to the community as much as I can.”

Gallagher said he couldn’t bear the thought of leaving the family stranded and hopes his act of kindness will inspire others to lend a hand whenever they can.

During their stay, Bynum’s son was made an honorary officer with his very own police badge, and even their dog got in on the fun as a “temporary K9.” The family made it home safely the next day, but the moment left a lasting impression.

“Something that I will never be able to repay that man for,” Bynum said. “Not because he helped me, but because of what he did. Not even as a police officer, but as a human being.”

Since then, Bynum has made it a point to stop in Hardy every time he travels through Arkansas. When he and his family passed through again a week later, Gallagher treated them to dinner.

“It’s just one of those experiences that restores your faith in people,” Bynum said.